University Lab Partners Invites Innovators for I-CREATE Program
University Lab Partners (ULP), in collaboration with the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), has opened applications for the I-CREATE program, designed to support innovators in the health security sector. The initiative offers significant funding ranging from $50,000 to $200,000, along with specialized mentorship and the chance to win a $50,000 cash prize.
Advancing Health Security Through Innovation
The I-CREATE (International Consortium for Research, Engineering, Acceleration of Technology Excellence) program serves as BARDA's Medical Devices & Diagnostics Hub. It aims to catalyze essential health security innovations that can address urgent challenges facing public health.
Transformative Objectives of the I-CREATE Program
Under the I-CREATE umbrella, ULP seeks to identify a cohort of startups and academic innovators focused on developing groundbreaking diagnostics and medical devices. These innovations are pivotal for advancing pandemic preparedness, refining infectious disease detection methods, and promoting health equity in underserved communities.
Opportunities Available Through I-CREATE
The I-CREATE program features two distinct tracks: the I-CREATE Accelerator and Non-Dilutive Funding, each offering unique advantages for participants.
I-CREATE Accelerator Overview
The Accelerator is a 12-week virtual program that will select ten teams focused on developing innovative solutions. Participants will benefit from a comprehensive curriculum covering topics crucial for business success, including:
- Business development strategies
- Market research and competitive analysis
- Fundraising techniques and go-to-market strategies
This program culminates in a virtual showcase, providing exposure to potential investors and federal agencies, with a grand prize of $50,000 awarded to the winning team.
Non-Dilutive Funding Details
In addition to the Accelerator, ULP offers Non-Dilutive Funding for qualifying proposals. Key features include:
- Funding up to $200,000 for initiatives aiming to tackle public health emergencies over a six-month period.
- Milestone-based funding covering essential expenses like labor, supplies, and necessary reagents.
- Continuous mentorship and opportunities to engage with BARDA for possible partnerships.
Leadership Insights
"Through I-CREATE, we are merging funding, mentorship, and strategic networking to advance new diagnostic platforms that could be pivotal in responding to public health crises," shared Stephanie Chan, Director of Innovation Programs at ULP. She emphasized that this year's accelerator and funding opportunities will empower innovators globally to turn transformative ideas into practical solutions.
Important Dates and Application Process
Interested applicants should note that preliminary applications for the I-CREATE program are due by September 30, 2025. This time frame allows innovators ample opportunity to prepare robust proposals aimed at enhancing health security.
About University Lab Partners
University Lab Partners is a nonprofit wet-lab incubator and accelerator committed to supporting life science startups. Based in an innovation-rich environment, ULP provides essential infrastructure and programming aimed at moving novel innovations from inception through to commercialization.
About BARDA
The Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, plays a crucial role in developing and deploying medical countermeasures for public health emergencies. Through initiatives like the I-CREATE program, BARDA equips innovators with the resources and support needed to achieve their goals in the medical field.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the I-CREATE program?
The I-CREATE program offers funding, mentorship, and resources to innovators working on health security solutions through ULP and BARDA.
Who can apply for the I-CREATE program?
Startups and university innovators focused on developing medical devices and diagnostics are eligible to apply for the program.
What type of funding is available?
Funding ranges from $50,000 to $200,000, and participants can also compete for a $50,000 cash prize.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline for preliminary applications is September 30, 2025.
What resources does ULP provide to participants?
ULP offers mentorship, funding opportunities, and access to a network of experts to help participants advance their innovations.
